The Downstream Users of Chemicals Co-ordination group was founded in 2001 following the publication of the European Commission’s White Paper : "Strategy for a Future Chemicals Policy". (more)

DUCC emanated from the desire to establish a group which would offer a platform for associations with similar goals and objectives to come together and create a unified and effective voice.
Furthermore, they would exchange views, develop joint positions and co-ordinate with other interested parties, with the specific concern of the applicability of REACH for "downstream users" of chemicals.

DUCC defines itself as a platform of associations whose member companies use chemicals to formulate preparations as finished products for end users, in particular consumers and professional users.

DUCC represents a variety of associations in its membership. Amongst them, these European-based associations represent several important industry sectors ranging from cosmetics and detergents to aerosol, paints, adhesives, photographic and chemical distributors industries. Altogether, they comprise more than 3,500 companies across the respective sectors in Europe. Moreover, the calculated turnover of these companies is more than 115 billion euros in 18 European countries (EU 15 + Norway, Switzerland and Iceland).